Paintbrush Cookies
This recipe makes a wonderful family Christmas tradition for the kids, to paint the holiday cookies. They turn out beautiful and the kids have a great time making them. This recipe was first published in the 1957 Betty Crocker's Cookbook for Boys and Girls.
This recipe makes a wonderful family Christmas tradition for the kids, to paint the holiday cookies. They turn out beautiful and the kids have a great time making them. This recipe was first published in the 1957 Betty Crocker's Cookbook for Boys and Girls.
- Carbohydrate 158.181851538462 g
- Cholesterol 303.253333333333 mg
- Fat 66.4350030769231 g
- Fiber 5.06357701191058 g
- Protein 22.9495630769231 g
- Saturated Fat 40.2528953333333 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Dozen (304g)
- Sodium 887.787838541657 mg
- Sugar 153.118274526551 g
- Trans Fat 5.24609574358973 g
- Calories 1328 calories
Step-by-step
- In large bowl, mix powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, almond extract and egg. Stir in flour, baking soda and cream of tartar. Cover and refrigerate 2 to 3 hours.
- Heat oven to 375F. Lightly grease cookie sheet with shortening or spray with cooking spray. Divide dough in half. On lightly floured surface, roll each half 3/16 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. On cookie sheet, place cookies about 2 inches apart.
- In small bowl, mix egg yolk and water. Divide mixture among several small custard cups. Tint each with a different food color to make bright colors. (If paint thickens while standing, stir in a few drops of water.) Paint designs on cookies with small paintbrushes. Bake 7 to 8 minutes or until edges are light brown. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack; cool.
Paintbrush Cookies: A Festive Family Tradition
Christmas is a time for traditions, and for my family, nothing says Christmas quite like making Paintbrush Cookies. This isn't just any cookie recipe; it's a cherished activity that brings our family together, year after year. The joy on my children's faces as they decorate these little works of art is priceless. The process is simple, yet the results are stunningly beautiful, far exceeding what you’d expect from a simple cookie recipe.
I first discovered this recipe many years ago, tucked away in an old cookbook—a tattered copy of the 1957 Betty Crocker's Cookbook for Boys and Girls, no less! It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, a testament to its simplicity and deliciousness. Over the years, it's become a fundamental part of our Christmas celebrations, a sweet and colorful memory we create together each holiday season. The aroma of warm, buttery cookies baking in the oven fills our home with a comforting warmth, and the vibrant colors add a festive touch to our holiday atmosphere.
The beauty of this recipe lies not just in the taste of the cookies—which are wonderfully buttery and subtly sweet—but also in the creative process. My kids eagerly anticipate this baking adventure, their eyes sparkling with excitement as they choose their cookie cutters and carefully select their favorite food colors. The kitchen transforms into a vibrant art studio, filled with laughter, flour dust, and the happy chaos of family collaboration. It's a wonderful opportunity to bond and create lasting memories together. The messy, joyous atmosphere is an essential part of the experience.
Beyond the Baking: But the tradition of Paintbrush Cookies goes beyond just the baking itself. It's about creating lasting memories. It’s about taking the time to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of family life, appreciating the moments spent together, creating something beautiful and delicious. This yearly ritual reminds us of the importance of togetherness, of embracing the imperfect, and of celebrating the spirit of the season.
Tips and Tricks: Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks to make the Paintbrush Cookie experience even more enjoyable. First, be sure to chill the dough for at least two hours. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in beautifully shaped cookies. Also, consider using a variety of cookie cutters to add to the visual appeal. Star shapes, Christmas trees, snowmen—the possibilities are endless! Don't be afraid to experiment with different food color combinations to create unique and festive designs. From classic red and green to more adventurous color choices, let your creativity flow!
Sharing the Joy: One of the most rewarding aspects of making Paintbrush Cookies is sharing them with others. We often package some of our cookies in festive bags or tins to give to friends, family, and neighbors. It's a thoughtful gesture that spreads the holiday cheer and allows others to share in our festive tradition. The smiles on their faces as they admire the beautifully painted cookies are as rewarding as the process of creating them.
So, this Christmas, consider adding a new tradition to your holiday celebrations. Try making Paintbrush Cookies. It's more than just a recipe; it's a chance to create beautiful memories, to connect with loved ones, and to add a touch of festive magic to your holiday season. The time spent together, the laughter, the creation – it’s these moments that make the holidays truly special.
The Legacy Continues: And who knows, perhaps this tradition will be passed down to future generations, just like it was passed down to me. Each year, as my children grow older, I know this recipe will remain a cherished part of our family's Christmas, a legacy that continues to spread joy and warmth throughout the years. These aren’t just cookies; they’re a sweet testament to the enduring power of family traditions, the festive joy of the Christmas season, and the timeless charm of a simple, beautifully decorated treat.
